Chapter 15 Information About Cisco Unified Communications Proxy Features

TLS Proxy Applications in Cisco Unified Communications

The ASA provides perimeter security by encrypting signaling connections between enterprises and preventing unathorized calls. An ASA running the Cisco Intercompany Media Engine Proxy can either be deployed as an Internet firewall or be designated as a Cisco Intercompany Media Engine Proxy and placed in the DMZ, off the path of the regular Internet traffic.

TLS Proxy Applications in Cisco Unified Communications

Table 15-1shows the Cisco Unified Communications applications that utilize the TLS proxy on the ASA.

Table 15-1 TLS Proxy Applications and the Security Appliance

 

 

 

 

Security

Security

 

 

 

Client

Appliance

Appliance

Application

TLS Client

TLS Server

Authentication

Server Role

Client Role

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phone Proxy

IP phone

Cisco UCM

Yes

Proxy

Local dynamic

and TLS Proxy

 

 

 

certificate,

certificate

 

 

 

 

self-signed or

signed by the

 

 

 

 

by internal CA

ASA CA

 

 

 

 

 

(might not need

 

 

 

 

 

certificate for

 

 

 

 

 

phone proxy

 

 

 

 

 

application)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobility Proxy

Cisco UMC

Cisco UMA

No

Using the

Any static

 

 

 

 

Cisco UMA

configured

 

 

 

 

private key or

certificate

 

 

 

 

certificate

 

 

 

 

 

impersonation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Presence

Cisco UP or

Cisco UP or

Yes

Proxy

Using the

Federation

MS LCS/OCS

MS LCS/OCS

 

certificate,

Cisco UP

Proxy

 

 

 

self-signed or

private key or

 

 

 

 

by internal CA

certificate

 

 

 

 

 

impersonation

 

 

 

 

 

 

The ASA supports TLS proxy for various voice applications. For the phone proxy, the TLS proxy running on the ASA has the following key features:

•The ASA forces remote IP phones connecting to the phone proxy through the Internet to be in secured mode even when the Cisco UCM cluster is in non-secure mode.

•The TLS proxy is implemented on the ASA to intercept the TLS signaling from IP phones.

•The TLS proxy decrypts the packets, sends packets to the inspection engine for NAT rewrite and protocol conformance, optionally encrypts packets, and sends them to Cisco UCM or sends them in clear text if the IP phone is configured to be in nonsecure mode on the Cisco UCM.

•The ASA acts as a media terminator as needed and translates between SRTP and RTP media streams.

•The TLS proxy is a transparent proxy that works based on establishing trusted relationship between the TLS client, the proxy (the ASA), and the TLS server.

Cisco ASA Series Firewall ASDM Configuration Guide

15-3

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Cisco Systems ASA 5585-X, ASA 5505, ASA 5545-X, ASA 5555-X manual TLS Proxy Applications in Cisco Unified Communications, 15-3
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ASA Services Module, ASA 5555-X, ASA 5545-X, ASA 5585-X, ASA 5580 specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leader in the field of network security, and its Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) series is a testament to this expertise. Within the ASA lineup, models such as the ASA 5505, ASA 5580, ASA 5585-X, ASA 5545-X, and ASA 5555-X stand out for their unique features, capabilities, and technological advancements.

The Cisco ASA 5505 is designed for small businesses or branch offices. It provides essential security features such as firewall protection, flexible VPN capabilities, and intrusion prevention. The ASA 5505 supports a user-friendly interface, allowing for straightforward management. Its built-in threat detection and prevention tools provide a layered defense, and with scalability in mind, it can accommodate various expansion options as organizational needs grow.

Moving up the line, the ASA 5580 delivers greater throughput and advanced security features. This model is suited for medium to large enterprises that require robust protection against increasingly sophisticated threats. Its multi-core architecture allows it to manage high volumes of traffic seamlessly while maintaining excellent performance levels. The ASA 5580 also supports application-layer security and customizable access policies, making it highly adaptable to diverse security environments.

The ASA 5585-X further enhances Cisco's security offerings with advanced malware protection and extensive security intelligence capabilities. It incorporates next-generation firewall features, including context-aware security, and supports advanced threat detection technologies. This model is ideal for large enterprises or data centers that prioritize security while ensuring uninterrupted network performance and availability.

For enterprises requiring a balance of performance and security, the ASA 5545-X presents a compelling option. This model features scalable performance metrics, high availability, and integrated advanced threat protection. Coupled with advanced endpoint protection and detailed monitoring capabilities, the ASA 5545-X enables organizations to manage their security posture effectively.

Lastly, the ASA 5555-X blends cutting-edge technologies with strong security infrastructures. It boasts high throughput and the ability to execute deep packet inspections. Its sophisticated architecture supports threat intelligence feeds that provide real-time security updates, making it a powerful tool against modern threats.

Each of these Cisco ASA models brings specific advantages to varied environments. Their integrative capabilities enable businesses to enhance their security postures while benefiting from seamless scalability and management. As cybersecurity threats evolve, these advanced appliances play a vital role in protecting valuable digital assets.
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